A new global report from wearable fitness technology company Myzone suggests that consistency—not intensity—is the strongest predictor of long-term exercise habits, offering fitness operators new insights into member engagement and retention. Based on anonymized and aggregated behaviour from Myzone users across multiple countries, age groups and activity types, The State of Global Exercise Behaviour 2025 examines how people build sustainable exercise routines rather than focusing solely on performance outcomes.

Among the report’s key findings, Myzone users averaged 3.5 workouts per week, a level of participation the company associates with stronger routine formation and improved member retention. The report also found that 87.4% of activity occurred within light-to-moderate intensity “Habit Zones,” suggesting that manageable, repeatable exercise plays a greater role in long-term adherence than consistently high-intensity training. For users over age 60, more than 90% of activity occurred within these lower intensity ranges, reflecting a growing emphasis on healthy aging and longevity.

Social connection also emerged as a significant factor. According to the report, users with 10 or more social connections generated 47% more activity than those exercising alone, reinforcing the role that accountability and community can play in sustaining exercise behaviour over time. The report also identified Monday as the most active day globally, with nearly 60% of workouts taking place before midday, highlighting the importance of routine in helping members establish lasting habits.

For fitness operators, the report suggests that creating environments which encourage regular participation, achievable progress and meaningful social interaction may have a greater impact on retention than emphasizing performance alone. As more members arrive equipped with wearable technology and personal activity data, the report notes there is an opportunity for facilities to support members in understanding their activity patterns and building sustainable exercise habits.

“This data reveals that showing up regularly is what defines real-world exercise behaviour,” said Jay Worthy, CEO of Myzone. “If the industry wants to keep members engaged, it must prioritise designing for consistency and community. When consistency is supported, motivation follows and exercise becomes something people stick with, not something they struggle to maintain.”